Choose A German Shepherd Puppy for Companionship And Protection

A German shepherd puppy is the ideal pet and companion for adults and children. Once they trust and respect their owner, they fearlessly protect their human family with their life. They are confident canines who are fun and entertaining. They also provide a sense of security to everyone around them.

This large breed is categorized in the herding group and was originally used to herd sheep in Germany. Over the years, they have been utilized as seeing eye dogs for the blind, guard dogs, and search and rescue missions. Their excellent sense of smell enables them to sniff out drugs and bombs. They are a popular breed used by the military and police departments.

They grow between 22" to 26" tall at the shoulder and weigh 49 to 88 pounds. Their colors are generally tan and black or red and black, but others may sport black and gray, all white or all black fur. They have double coated fur that is a thick, soft under coat and a coarser outer coat. Although they do not need bathed very often, they should be brushed daily. Their lifespan ranges from 9 to 13 years.

Once mutual respect is achieved, these animals build a strong bond with their owners. They are fiercely loyal, obedient and eager to please. They are very protective and do not trust strangers. They have a good temperament with children as they become familiar with them and the trust grows. They prefer not to be alone and would rather interact with other dogs or family members.

This dog is highly intelligent and not easily distracted. They are easy to train and stay focused on the task being taught to them. Owners need to show the German shepherd puppy who is in authority at the beginning of training otherwise this breed will try to take control. Commands should be given in a firm manner, and they respond poorly to instructions given in anger.

This breed has a very strong, muscular body. They are extremely energetic and perform well in agility contests, competitions and dog shows. They require daily exercise to prevent boredom, restlessness and destructive behavior. They especially enjoy taking walks, running and fetching a ball or Frisbee. They do well in homes with large yards where they have the room to run and play. They are not constant barkers and only bark if the need arises.

Health conditions that may occur are ear infections, allergy to flea bites, digestion issues, dry skin, swelling of the cornea and epilepsy. Animals with sloped backs instead of straight backs may experience arthritis pain later in life. Less common issues include a malformed hip socket and abnormal growth of cartilage in the elbow joint causing arthritis pain. Degenerative spinal stenosis and myelopathy both affect the spinal cord and nerves leading to pain, decreased coordination or paralysis.

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Taryn Johnson is an avid writer. She loves all things about electronics and marketing. In a perfect world, Taryn would be writing from the beaches of Hawaii all day long.